it is tolerable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is tolerable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express that something is acceptable or bearable, though not necessarily ideal. Example: "The weather today is not perfect, but it is tolerable for a day out."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

Many will decide it is tolerable.

The New York Times

"It is tolerable," said he, glancing at the Rettangolo's plum crocodile strap.

The Guardian

"I don't think that it is tolerable or acceptable from the investors," he continued.

The New Yorker

No longer do we believe it is tolerable to wait even a few days for a response to our communications.

The New York Times

Just don't pretend that the deteriorating jobs picture will self-correct, or act as if it is tolerable.

The New York Times

Inequality of wealth, and the poverty that comes with it, is tolerable on the understanding that there will be equality of opportunity.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

However, if it's tolerable, you may just want to let it run its course.

WikiHow

It was tolerable.

The Guardian

Some days things are O.K., it's tolerable.

The New York Times

Once it becomes a cartoon, it's tolerable.

The New York Times

In the workplace, in the street, in a nightclub – it's tolerable.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is tolerable" to express acceptance of a situation or condition that is not ideal but can be endured. It's useful when acknowledging drawbacks while still affirming a degree of acceptance.

Common error

While "it is tolerable" is grammatically correct, overuse in formal writing can make your tone sound passive or unenthusiastic. Opt for stronger, more affirmative language when possible, such as "it is acceptable" or "it is manageable".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is tolerable" functions as a predicate adjective, describing the quality or state of a subject (often an implied or stated situation or condition). It indicates that something is acceptable or bearable, though not necessarily ideal. As Ludwig AI shows, this expression appears across various contexts, conveying a nuanced acceptance.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

33%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it is tolerable" is a common and grammatically sound way to express that something is acceptable or bearable, even if not ideal. Ludwig AI's analysis reveals that it appears frequently in news, scientific, and general contexts, signifying a measured acceptance or endurance. While versatile, be mindful of the tone, opting for stronger alternatives in formal writing to avoid sounding passive. By understanding its nuances and appropriate contexts, writers can effectively use "it is tolerable" to convey balanced and nuanced perspectives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is acceptable

Expresses a more formal agreement or approval compared to "it is tolerable".

it is bearable

Focuses on the capacity to endure something, highlighting a sense of resilience.

it is manageable

Suggests that something can be controlled or dealt with effectively.

it is permissible

Indicates that something is allowed or authorized.

it is allowable

Implies that something is not prohibited and conforms to a set of rules.

it is satisfactory

Indicates that something meets a certain level of requirement or expectation.

it is admissible

Suggests that something is allowed or can be considered, often in a formal context.

it is endurable

Similar to "bearable" but implies a stronger sense of lasting through hardship.

it is sustainable

Focuses on the capacity to maintain something over time without depletion or harm.

it is passable

Indicates that something meets the minimum requirements or expectations but is not necessarily excellent.

FAQs

How can I use "it is tolerable" in a sentence?

The phrase "it is tolerable" can be used to describe something that is acceptable or bearable, even if not ideal. For instance, "The noise level is high, but "it is tolerable"." You could also say, "The food wasn't great, but "it was tolerable"."

What are some alternatives to saying "it is tolerable"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "it is acceptable", "it is bearable", or "it is manageable". Each carries a slightly different nuance, so choose the one that best fits your intended meaning.

Is it better to say "it is tolerable" or "it is tolerated"?

"It is tolerable" describes something's inherent quality of being bearable or acceptable. "It is tolerated" implies that someone is allowing something to happen without preventing it, even if they don't fully approve. For example, "his behavior "it is tolerated" by his boss because he is a high performer."

What does "it is tolerable" imply about the situation?

Saying "it is tolerable" suggests that the situation or condition is not perfect, but it's acceptable enough to be endured or dealt with. It often implies a compromise or acceptance of less-than-ideal circumstances, signaling that while improvements might be desired, the current state is sufficient.